Testimonial for Susan Rotman, AAHCC, CD(DONA)
I wanted a natural childbirth, but as a first time mom I didn't know what to expect and was terrified of the pain. My water broke before contractions started and as the hours ticked by I was pressured to induce labor. I dreaded pitocin and knew it would most likely lead to an epidural. Susan gave me the courage to resist the pressure the hospital was putting on me to induce in very diplomatic ways. In addition to emotional support, the physical support she offered was tremendous. When contractions became productive they created pain in my lower back. Susan brought helpful tools that I never would have thought to bring. You just don't know what you will need, but Susan had a stockpile of pain-saving tricks. One was a massage tool that she and my husband used on my lower back for hours. I'm certain that without this simple tool I wouldn't have survived the contractions. During the pushing phase I was burning hot, Susan kept iced water washcloths on my face. These sorts of simple comforts made a huge difference in my birth experience. I can't imagine having to handle labor without her comforting support. She was there to calm me down when I began to panic. Everyone deserves a doula and Susan was the perfect person to keep my emotional and mental strength up and her hands-on approach made the pain of childbirth very manageable. I wish I had not feared labor as much as I did in the months leading up to it. Next time I'll know to look forward to it. Susan also did lots of extra things like taking pictures and packing up our stuff to move to the recovery room. She does it all, including spending time talking with you weeks before you even go into labor to make sure you are prepared for the exciting journey ahead. I know that sounds cliche, but thanks to Susan and my husband, my natural labor really was an incredible experience and I look forward to the next one. Thanks Susan for helping us bring baby Wells into the world-we will be forever grateful.
-Mary Elizabeth Borgerding
June 20, 2014
Susan Rotman, AAHCC, CD(DONA)
Rotman Education Services, LLC
Birth Fee: $2500
